Jenny Dean Elementary construction on schedule, on budget, officials say

Construction of the new Jenny Dean Elementary School is on schedule and on budget, Deputy Superintendent Greg Gafeller told the Manassas City School Board on Tuesday. "We are on time and on budget," Gafeller said, adding that concrete slab grading is nearly complete and masonry walls for administrative, first- and second-grade wings have been erected. Mechanical trades are progressing ahead of wall construction so rough-in work is in place for future finishes, he said. Gafeller said site work has focused on utility connections and preparation of a side parking lot. "A couple weeks ago, they connected the water," he told the board, and the parking lot is scheduled to reopen in time for the start of the school year. He estimated about 80 workers are on-site daily and said procurement work for door hardware, structural steel, and owner-direct purchasing is nearly complete. Gafeller said the district will present updates in coming meetings on exterior finishes and furniture selections, and promised additional photos at the July meeting. He described next steps as continued installation of mechanical units, facade assembly and continued site-preparation for parking and utilities. Ending: The board received the construction update with no action taken; staff will return with additional photos and procurement information at future meetings.